History 1980s

Lancia Delta HF 4WD / Integrale / 16v

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

After Group B’s abrupt cancellation, Lancia quickly pivoted to Group A regulations with the Delta HF 4WD — a turbocharged, four-wheel-drive variant of their compact road car. Introduced in 1987, it immediately set the pace, claiming both Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ Championships in its debut season. The car was continually refined into the Integrale and later the 16v version, becoming more powerful, more stable, and even more dominant. From 1987 to 1989, no team came close to matching the Delta’s blend of performance, reliability, and versatility across all surfaces.

Technical Specs & Innovations

The Delta HF platform was a case study in continuous improvement. Its AWD system provided superior grip, while updates to suspension geometry and turbo delivery made the car faster and more controllable with each version.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

  • 1987 WRC Champion: Juha Kankkunen wins Drivers’ title; Lancia takes Manufacturers’ crown with the HF 4WD.
  • 1988 WRC Champion: Miki Biasion dominates the season in the Delta Integrale.
  • 1989 WRC Champion: Biasion repeats his title in the new 16v version; Lancia continues its winning streak.

From 1987 to 1989, the Lancia Delta platform won every WRC Manufacturers’ title and 3 consecutive Drivers’ titles — a feat unmatched in Group A’s early years. It won on snow, gravel, tarmac, and mud, often outclassing newer rivals before they even hit their stride.

Driving Characteristics

The Delta Integrale was fast, composed, and confidence-inspiring. With strong low-end torque and a predictable power curve, it allowed drivers to attack corners aggressively. Its AWD system and stiff chassis delivered excellent stability on rough terrain and loose surfaces, while its compact size helped it remain nimble in tight sections. It rewarded smoothness but had the grunt to power through aggressive lines when needed.

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